Cycle Tour Italy: Dolomites, Lake Garda & Venice Ride

This really is a great trip - with a good amount of cycling with some challenging climbs to get the heart and legs working. I love the fact that every day was busy with so much to see and do. The scenery during the rides was varied and very beautiful. The towns we visited were all full of history and culture whether it was Trento, Lake Garda, Verona, Vicenza, Padova or Venice.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The whole trip was very inspirational, but visiting Vicenza was definitely a highlight. You could feel the love and passion that Michele has for his home town and briefly meeting his family was very touching.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele was and is the best group leader I have had on any Exodus trip - he was my group leader when I went to Sardinia and I booked this trip for the pure reason that I knew he was the group leader. His energy is incredible and he is 100% focussed in making sure that everyone has a great time.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Make sure you have reasonable fitness just so you can get the most out of the holiday. You want to enjoy the rides as mush as you can and there are sections that are quite challenging , so a reasonable level of fitness is a huge benefit. And "throw yourself" into your holiday - your fellow travelers are a big part of your holiday, so join in with everything and you'll get so much more from the experience. I've certainly come back home with a new set of friends.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Don't hesitate to book this trip - a great combination of cycling and culture.

This trip was an easy downhill cycle from Bolzano to Venice. Starting in the Dolomites with the amazing mountains surrounding us we were cycling mainly on beautiful cycle paths through the valley and along the Adige River. With 16 like minded people we were able to explore all the gorgeous villages on the way. With our guide Martino giving us full descriptions of the history of the areas we visited. The hotels were mostly average, all providing a hearty breakfast before riding. Lunch was had on the way and dinner was enjoyed with the group, usually Martino"s pick. all mostly good Italian food. I loved everything about this trip, the people, both locals and on the tour, the scenery, the cycling, the towns we visited, the culture, the history, the food. If you're wondering whether to do this trip, just do it. You won't regret it.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Meeting a group of different people from different countries with a common interest of being fit, having fun, and seeing a different part of the world.
What did you think of your group leader?
Martino was excellent in giving instructions of what to expect on the way etc. He was a wealth of knowledge on all things Italian, delivered with a sense of humor and patience. Roberta, our driver was also fabulous, friendly and so helpful.

This was our first Exodus trip after being recommended by a couple of friends - what an amazing trip!! Absolutely loved it - our guide Martino made the holiday - highlights were Lake Garda, Venice, winery at Pegoaro, views and safe cycle paths, the food and wine of course! Can't wait for the next adventure
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Riding down into Lake Garda
What did you think of your group leader?
Fantastico
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
be prepared for all weathers - not so much daytime casual clothes as we went from off the bike, shower and out for dinner - couple of insect bikes - keep a diary and you pack so much in!!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Excited to do it all again!!!

The ride was at a good pace, not too fast and not too slow. We passed through beautiful towns and countryside and there was ample opportunities to take photographs.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The icing on the cake for this ride was how much I enjoyed the company of the other riders on this trip. I think I was just as sore from laughing so much as my legs were from riding.
What did you think of your group leader?
Martino Falsini took good care of us, keeping the ride at a good pace so we weren't too far spaced out, stopping frequently to regroup and to refill our water bottles. He provided us with commentary on many of the towns we passed through.

This was our first time doing any sort of cycling holiday and I chose Exodus based on the reviews of other people and it didn't disappoint.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The scenery was amazing, from the Mountains and Lakes in the north, down to the canals of Venice. Also it was great to see the camaraderie grow within the group, from total strangers at the beginning of the trip to good friends at the end.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our leader, Martino, was excellent. He has a huge knowledge of the region and always gave us an extra little tour around any of our destinations. He also offered the chance to do some extra miles with a couple of early morning rides before breakfast. They were certainly worth doing as you saw things that were not on the normal itinerary.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
This trip was rated as moderate and I would agree with this. Just be prepared for some days to be both moderately easy and moderately hard in places.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Would certainly book with Exodus again for a cycling holiday - they have a good selection of routes in many countries.

I can't recommend Exodus highly enough. We were taken care of extremely well from start to finish.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The group spirit was great.
What did you think of your group leader?
Martino was very professional and took very good care of us. His knowledge of the areas we visited was quite amazing. Couldn't have asked for a better guide.

The trip was excellent. Brilliant changing scenery. Our guide on the July trip was very knowledgeable, fun and paid attention to detail. With our Driver making a great pair. A memorable time had by all.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Find it hard to pick one particular moment but our guided trip round Venice rates very high
What did you think of your group leader?
Excellent and so was the driver. They made a very good pair. A pleasure to be with.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
I have said it all.

This was a great way to experience Italy on cycle paths and quiet roads with our super guide providing lots of interesting commentary and experiences along the way. We visited so many interesting villages, towns and cities along the way finally arriving in Venice.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
There were many great moments - as various sights came into view. One special moment was the view of Venice from the rooftop terrace.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele was an excellent guide and consistently went the extra mile to ensure we got the most out of the holiday. He explained the sites and the history in an engaging and fun way and arranged many extra experiences for us along the way. We will definitely be coming back for another of Michele's rides.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Take insect repellent as the mosquitos appeared after we arrived at the southern end of Lake Garda. Wear a road cycling jersey with rear pockets to carry phone / money etc so you can leave your backpack in the van. Bring a cycling water bottle - one is enough as there are lots of drinking fountains along the way. Do some riding beforehand to bulid some cycling fitness - everyone on our trip had a good level of fitness which meant that the group stayed close togehter.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I would highly recommend this trip.

My wife and I had an amazing time. The combination of cycling, culture, new friends and fantastic guiding made this truely memorable. Thank you Mchele and Martino, and of course all the other members of our group. One more thing,... was it needing it or was the food fantastic anyway?
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Seeing that Vicenza lived up to the description. The dinner in the square with the group, Martino and Michele's family was wonderful.
What did you think of your group leader?
I could not praise Michele enough. I shall be joing him again soon for another trip.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Just do it!

A brilliant trip from mountains to sea with something for everyone in between. The route is along well kept cycle paths and quiet country roads. The cycling isn't too strenuous but there are plenty of challenges for those looking to push themselves - and there are a few optional early morning cycles if you really want to go for it. The scenery is spectacular, food is amazing and the guides are inspiring.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The 4km descent from the Monte Berico hills to the vineyard is amazing. As tempting as it is to keep the head down and enjoy the downhill with out interruption make sure you stop somewhere to take in the views before jumping back on the bike and speeding to the bottom all too soon. Lunch at the Vineyard afterwards is a fantastic spread and well deserved.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Martino were fantastic. They both have a great sense of humor, lots of experience and patience. They were always smiling - whether its at 6am on one of the optional morning rides or gone midnight touring Venice by moonlight. From the moment we were met at the airport to returning us to normality in Venice we didn't have to worry about a thing. Both of them go above and beyond to make sure that everyone enjoys their holiday. Thank you!
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
If you like hills say 'yes' to the optional early morning cycle from Trento. It follows part of the Giro route and is definitely a hill. The ascent takes 30 minutes and descent takes 3 minutes! The bragging rights at breakfast are definitely worth it! Our final cycle to Venice was canceled due to heavy rain but this wasn't a problem because it gave us a full day in Venice. If you're given the option leave the bikes, take the train and enjoy the guided tour of Venice through the back streets away from the tourists.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you haven't booked already do it now!

This was one of the best holidays I have had. The combination of cycling, scenery, excellent company and first class leadership has made this a holiday I shall never forget.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The landscape in the Dolomites was breath taking and at times overwhelming.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele was a first class leader. Always made sure he had time for everyone in the group; had a great sense of humor and his knowledge of the places we visited made their history come alive
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
A great trip which enables you to enjoy your cycling and at the same time take in some amazing scenery
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Michele went out of his way to make the trip enjoyable. His decision, because of adverse weather conditions, for us to spend a whole day in Venice meant that we able to visit and see the city in a much more relaxed way

This was a fun, leisurely, week-long ride through some of Italy's most beautiful landscapes and cities, full of history, delicious food, and great gelato. I was fortunate that there was such wonderful camaraderie amongst our group, so that there was always lots of laughs, especially when the "easy, flat" sections contained lots of undulations. I would do this trip again if I could!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The first glimpse of Lake Garda.
What did you think of your group leader?
This was my second trip with Michele as leader - he's extremely experienced, takes great care of everyone and everything, and goes above and beyond to make sure you're having a good time. Whether you are being supported up a climb, being recommended a good restaurant, or going on one of his optional early morning rides, if you're lucky enough to be in a group of his, you're in safe hands. He and Martino made a great team, with Martino joining in with all the support, all the laughs, and all the climbs. We were lucky to have them both taking care of us.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Go for it and enjoy!

This was my first Exodus cycling trip, it will not be the last!! This trip takes you through some gorgeous Italian countryside, with mountains, lakes and vineyards. In addition you visit some beautiful and historic cities. We were fortunate to have bad weather on the last day which meant that cycling was abandoned in favour of the train to Venice and a full day walking tour of the city!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Traveling with a great bunch of people who were fun to be with, supportive and encouraging. Completing the ‘big’ climbs!
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele is an inspirational group leader who goes out of his way to make sure that everyone has a memorable experience, nothing is too much for him. Martino likewise was very supportive especially on the ‘big’ climbs. They made an excellent team
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
If you get the opportunity to miss out the last day of cycling and spend a full day in Venice take it!

Delightful route through some beautiful countryside and staying or passing through towns oozing with italian atmosphere, history and wonderful architecture.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Lunch and tour of a winery - just like out of a film set! With the most delicious home-made/home-grown food, and wine, was a definite highlight. That, after swimming in a mountain lake in the early part of the trip. And the icing on the cake was being taken on a tour of Venice by our guide who was able to take us away from the crowds to discover parts of the city only locals would know, including nosing out restaurants where the locals eat!
What did you think of your group leader?
Excellent. Michele is hugely experienced in looking after cycling groups. His enthusiasm for his work and love of his country is infectious and makes the whole thing so much fun. There is no substitute for local knowledge... Martino provided very helpful back-up and worked hard to make sure everyone in the group was looked after.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Be prepared with an additional picnic for your journey from the airport to the hotel on the first night if you want to avoid having to eat dubious motorway services food. With so much good food available in Italy, it is not the most attractive introduction to the week but probably unavoidable in view of arrival times and the local tradition in that part of the country to eat early.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our ride from Padova to Venice on the last cycling day was curtailed because of heavy rain. This turned out to be a huge bonus as that leg would not have been through particularly attractive countryside and would have taken up all of the morning and probably more. Going by train straight into Venice first thing gave us a full day there, with our guide, which made it a memorable day and a brilliant finale to a most enjoyable trip.

Great cycling through wonderful scenery.Visited some beautiful cities with their amazing buildings and history
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The ride down to Lake Garda and the clean cities.
What did you think of your group leader?
Good with great local knowledge
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Disappointed that there are no tea or coffee making facilities in any of the hotels,should be a standard commodity!!

This was my first cycling trip, and the week was fantastic! On the morning of Day 3 at breakfast, we were commenting to each other that we could not believe we had only been cycling for 2 days. Seeing the history-packed cities of Verona, Vicenza and Padova briefly during the day and staying only 1 night, we promised to return to each city for at least a few nights in future.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Probably the most dramatic part of the trip, despite not being actual cycling (though that was good overall), was taking a catamaran ferry from the top of Lake Garda at Riva del Garda southbound to Desenzano. Being on the water is always wonderful, and this 3-hour trip calling at gorgeous lakeside towns I had never heard of, let alone visited, was captivating. One could tell at a glance that these were all and each extraordinary places of beauty and resonance that have crafted lovely summer memories for thousands of visitors over at least a few centuries.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele was a terrific leader and host for the week. Being a native of Vicenza, he knows the entire Veneto region very well and his high energy levels, good cheer and ready smile kept us all motivated and made for a wonderful trip. Martino's friendliness and support from the van was much appreciated. We enjoyed time with both guys during stops for delicious Italian food at lunchtime.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Make yourself go and do at least a few cycling days of 30miles/50km in the several weeks before you go! I thought, "No problem, I'm in reasonable shape and this just a #3/moderate rated trip" and didn't do much pre-trip training. While the trip was still pleasant overall, as per Exodus' advice, one will appreciate it much more having been "in the saddle" for at least a moderate period, and significant daily duration, before traveling.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
This was such a wonderful week, and great experience. I loved it. So much packed in a marvellously distilled week. I will never forgot the intoxicating blasts of jasmine scent from the blossoming hedges everywhere we cycled during this first week in June! Like many more experienced fellow travelers on this trip, I am certain that I will be booking many more Exodus cycling trips over the coming years!

This trip was to celebrate a big birthday for a dear friend, and it was truly one of the best ways I can imagine to usher in a new decade. We are casual cyclists so it was great there was nothing too daunting in terms of distance and elevation - and I was so distracted by the stunning scenes that I did not mind the odd view stop on the steeper bits.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I will never forget turning the corner and seeing beautiful Lake Garda - truly magical, and I thought it could not be topped - that was until Michele took us to look at the roof tops of Venice. Breathtaking!
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Martino were a great team, and I think Michele's local knowledge shone through in terms of his recommendations for restaurants every evening. He's a passionate Italian Ambassador, and for sure the trip was greatly enhanced by his local knowledge and passion for this beautiful part of the world.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Bring a sense of humor if it rains!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I was really pleased the weather was poor on the Friday as it meant we did not cycle and were able to get into Venice earlier than planned. I think the trip would benefit from a full day in Venice on the Friday rather than cycling!